Maternal Uterine Artery Doppler Study

In the setting of uteroplacental insufficiency, there is little that can be done to increase
blood flow through the uterus and placenta. Historically, women with growth restricted
fetuses or oligohydramnios have been placed on bed rest. Unfortunately, this treatment
modality has met with only limited success. Cardiologists have long recognized the simple
act of making a fist or otherwise occluding blood flow through a limb dramatically increases
a person's peripheral vascular resistance. If maternal peripheral resistance can be
increased, perhaps the increased differential between the maternal peripheral vascular
resistance and that of the uteroplacental unit will increase flow through the uterus and
placenta.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Pregnant women greater than or equal to 18 years old

- Able to speak and read English

- Have a singleton pregnancy greater than or equal to 18 weeks gestation

Exclusion Criteria:

- Multiple gestation

- Less than 18 weeks gestation

- Uterine anomalies

- Fetal anomalies

- Preeclampsia

- Hypertension

- Inability to have BP cuff on left arm